Woodland arsonists killing trees

Yobs have set fire to trees in Dudley woodland, causing damage to roots which could cause them to die and topple over.

One was so badly damaged it has already come down at Gorge Road Wood, Sedgley. Around 12 large trees have had been damaged with another on the verge of toppling over.

Teenagers are being blamed for the vandalism at the wood known locally as The Bowl. Police say they are aware of the problem.

Grandfather-of-four Fred Durnall, who lives nearby, has spoken to police and Dudley Council officials.

The 74-year-old and friend Sid Burton, aged 80, surveyed recent damage to trees.

They say about 12 large trees were set alight with another six smaller trees damaged, in the wood off Turns Hill Road and Gorge Road.

Mr Durnall said: "I think it is an absolute disgrace what has been done to these trees. Many people who live nearby like to walk through these woods. But these trees are being desecrated one by one. Only little fires are set in the roots of the trees but it is enough to damage them.

"There is wildlife in these woods like woodpeckers, foxes and badgers."

Mayor of Dudley Councillor Michael Evans, who represents the ward and has visited Mr Durnall, added: "Some of these trees are hundreds if not thousands of years old and it is such a shame this is happening to them.

"It is such a lovely spot and is well used by the community. If we could identify the children involved I'd be happy to go along to their schools and talk to classes to highlight the damage being done to the environment by these actions."

Sgt Rob Simpson, from Sedgley neighbourhood police team, said extra patrols would be made in the area to stop further vandalism.

He added police would be liaising with the council to identify and would keep Mr Durnall up to date which future developments.